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By Gogo Ada Rufus Mbere
Crème’ de la crème’ of society stormed the ancient Okrika Kingdom to witness the formal chieftaincy installation and admission ceremony of Chief Precious Kalade Orupabo Abibo into the Kirike Divisional Council of Chiefs, Walga as chief and head of the Abibo War Canoe House.
The event showcased the final installation rites i.e. ‘donning’ of the amiable chief who was traditionally decked in a unique attire that caught the fancy of guests and visitors from far and near, who came in their numbers to identify with him.
After the flying of the house flag and traditional drum signal, the stage was set for the procession of the new chief and his entourage to Kirike Divisional Council of Chiefs’ hall where he was finally installed as the chief and head of Abibo War Canoe House amidst cheers from the mammoth crowd.
The procession afterwards moved to the palace of the Amanyanabo of Kirike, HRM King (Air Commodore) T.E.O Ogube (rtd), supreme monarch of Kirike Kingdom where Chief Abibo received the chieftaincy certificate.
The Amanyanabo of Kirike Kingdom, King Ogube, described the chief as a humble personality who is loyal and dedicated to the kingdom with so much sterling qualities, stressing that Chief Abibo is recognized for his contributions to the progress and development of Kirike Kingdom.
The royal father assured that Chief Abibo will distinguish himself to the best of his ability in giving leadership to his War Canoe House and the entire kingdom as a whole.
Chairman of Kirike Divisional Council of Chiefs, Alabo (Dr.) Bernard Aprioku Okome, noted that Chief Abibo satisfied all the necessary requirements right from the traditional ‘Imunumunu Kpo’ rites to the final installation.
He advised him to be humble and cherish his War Canoe House with love and care, praying the Almighty God to protect his chiefdom.
Elder David Tekena Orupabo described the installation as unique, adding that he is confident that Chief Abibo will bring peace and progress to the War Canoe House given of his outstanding qualities over the years. He called on all members to rally round and support him for the growth of the House.
The new chief’s wife, Alabota Joy Precious Orupabo, said her husband’s new status is worth celebrating, pointing out that the elevation will no doubt bring progress and growth to the War Canoe House, assuring also of her supportive role in ensuring peaceful stability of the House.
The new chief and head of the Abibo War Canoe House, Chief Precious Kalade Orupabo Abibo, lauded guests who attended his installation, saying he was overwhelmed at the massive turn out. He particularly thanked the Amanyanabo of Kirike Kingdom, King (Air Commodore) T.E.O. Ogube (rtd), and the entire Kirike Divisional Council of Chiefs for their support in ensuring the successful completion of his installation, noting that he will create an enabling atmosphere in his War Canoe House for peace to reign.
Dignitaries from all walks of life attended the event which climaxed with a lavish reception held at the Tomobiri sandfill area of Okrika as guests were treated to full traditional royal dance.
Gogo Ada Rufus Mbere is a Port Harcourt-based media consultant